Meet Chris Smith - One of Kent Police Federation's new Reps

18 November 2021

Q. Can you give us a brief summary of your career history and your current rank and role?
A. I joined Kent Police in 2006. After initially being posted to a volume crime team, in 2008 I moved onto response and have been on the same team ever since, throughout the various iterations of response and local policing.

Q. What made you want to become a Fed Rep?
A. Having seen friends and colleagues put through ridiculously long investigations, and the good nature of officers being taken advantage of all too regularly I wanted to do something to help. Some officers are afraid to rock the boat as they think it will interfere with their promotion prospects, but that’s not a problem with me!

I also want to do whatever I can to fight the ongoing battle for our pensions, and wanted a voice and hopefully some input into how we challenge the Government’s relentless attack on our pay and conditions.

Q. Why do you think it’s important for members to be supported by fellow officers as their Reps?
A. Policing is a unique occupation and can change you in a number of ways, for example instilling a deep sense of cynicism and mistrust. Knowing that the person supporting you has probably experienced the same things is vital, as is the sense that you will not be judged unfairly for your actions. A fellow officer brings a sense of perspective and understanding that perhaps an independent observer will not have.

Q. Which areas in particular are you looking forward to focusing on?
A. I intend to focus on conduct. I have known officers who have been treated horrendously whilst under investigation. They seem to be forgotten about, lines of enquiry are missed or ignored, and updates don’t ever seem to be forthcoming. I want to be able to apply pressure in order to minimise the impact and length of investigations wherever possible. I also want to gain a full understanding of the workplace regs so that the good nature of officers is not abused.

Q. What should members do if they are concerned about anything?
A. There’s plenty of information online, but if you have a question or concern, speak to someone about it - there will always be someone who is willing to help. Don’t suffer in silence.

Q. What would you say to colleagues who might wonder where their subs go?
A. Solicitors are eye wateringly expensive! Legal bills can easily run into tens or hundreds of thousands of pounds, so it’s worth it for the peace of mind. Fortunately I’ve never needed any Federation assistance, but in the current climate it’s better safe than sorry.